Dr. Wilusz Blog

Posts for: July, 2014

With summer in full swing, we'd like to share with you some summer foot health tips. Nothing screams summer like a trip to the beach, but if you're not careful, you can run into some trouble. Below are a few things to be mindful of during summer trips to your favorite body of water.

Sunburns

We all know the importance of sunscreen, however, applying it to our feet is something easily overlooked. Remember our feet can and will get sunburned too!

Burns

Going barefoot - especially at the beach - is very common in the summer. On hot summer days, sand, paved surfaces and concrete can get extremely hot. Make sure to wear something on your feet to prevent any burns on your feet - especially if you're diabetic.

Cuts

Have you ever cut your foot on a piece of broken glass or a shell while out swimming or just walking the beach? If so, you know the drag it can be on your day.

If you're faced with this unfortunate situation, make sure to immediately seek treatment as bacteria in oceans and lakes can cause serious infections.

Heel Pain and Ankle Injuries

Walking, jogging or playing sports on uneven surfaces increases the chance of an ankle injury. Couple that with the typical unsupportive beach footwear such as sandals, boat shoes, and flip-flops and you're faced with an increased risk for ankle sprain, heel pain and arch pain.

If injuries occur, use rest ice, compression and elevation to ease pain and swelling. If the pain persists, make sure to seek treatment from a local foot and ankle specialist.

Diabetic Risks

A diabetic person should always wear shoes while at the beach and take shoes and socks off regularly to inspect feet.

Because of poor blood circulation and numbness in the feet, a diabetic person may not immediately feel a wound puncture or burn on the foot.

Should you notice any burn, wound or cut on your foot, seek immediate attention from a local foot and ankle specialist. If untreated, the issue could turn into an ulcer and possibly worse.

If you're at the beach and experience any of the above mentioned issues please feel free to call if you are uncertain as to whether you should seek medical treatment. Our medical professionals will do their best to assist you as best we can.